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Owner’s Manual
Freedom 10
Inverter/Charger
Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger
Owner’s Manual
About Xantrex
Xantrex Technology Inc. is a world-leading supplier of advanced power electronics and controls with products from
50 watt mobile units to one MW utility-scale systems for wind, solar, batteries, fuel cells, microturbines, and backup
power applications in both grid-connected and stand-alone systems. Xantrex products include inverters, battery
chargers, programmable power supplies, and variable speed drives that convert, supply, control, clean, and distribute
electrical power.
Trademarks
Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger is a trademark of Xantrex International. Xantrex is a registered trademark of Xantrex
International.
Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and product names are the property of their respective owners and are used
herein for identification purposes only.
Notice of Copyright
Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger Owner’s Manual © August 2005 Xantrex International. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC. (“XANTREX”)
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY
TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION.
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT,
INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH
INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
Date and Revision
August 2005 Revision A
Part Number
975-0251-01-01
Contact Information
Telephone:
Fax:
Email:
Web:
34 93 470 5330
34 93 473 6093
[email protected]
www.xantrex.com
About This Manual
Purpose
The purpose of this Owner’s Manual is to provide explanations and procedures for
installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Freedom 10 Inverter/
Charger.
Scope
The Manual provides safety guidelines, detailed planning and setup information,
procedures for installing the inverter, as well as information about operating and
troubleshooting the unit. It does not provide details about particular brands of
batteries. You need to consult individual battery manufacturers for this
information.
Audience
The Manual is intended for anyone who needs to install and operate the Freedom
10 Inverter/Charger. Installers should be certified technicians or electricians.
Conventions Used
The following conventions are used in this guide.
WARNING
Warnings identify conditions or practices that could result in personal injury or loss of life
CAUTION
Cautions identify conditions or practices that could result in damage to the unit or other
equipment.
Important: These notes describe things that are important for you to know, but not as
serious as a caution or warning.
Related Information
You can find more information about Xantrex Technology Inc. as well as its
products and services at www.xantrex.com
975-0251-01-01
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iv
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING
This chapter contains important safety and operating instructions. Read and keep this
Owner’s Manual for future reference.
Important: General safety information for installation and operation is contained
throughout this manual where they apply and are not included In this summary.
1. Before installing and using the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger, read all
instructions and cautionary markings on the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger, the
batteries, and all appropriate sections of this guide.
2. For continued protection against the possibility of fire, replace the fuse only
with a fuse of the specified voltage, current, and type ratings.
3. To avoid damage, operate the equipment only within the specified AC (mains)
and DC (battery) voltages.
4. Do not expose the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger to rain, snow, spray, or bilge
water. To reduce risk of fire hazard, do not cover or obstruct the ventilation
openings. Do not install the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger in a zero-clearance
compartment. Overheating may result.
5. Use only attachments recommended or sold by the manufacturer. Doing
otherwise may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
6. To avoid a risk of fire and electric shock, make sure that existing wiring is in
good condition and that wire is not undersized. Do not operate the Freedom
10 Inverter/Charger with damaged or substandard wiring.
7. Do not operate the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger if it has received a sharp
blow, been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way. If the Freedom 10
Inverter/Charger is damaged, see the Warranty section.
8. Do not disassemble the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger. It contains no userserviceable parts. See Warranty for instructions on obtaining service.
Attempting to service the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger yourself may result in
a risk of electrical shock or fire. Internal capacitors remain charged after all
power is disconnected.
9. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, disconnect both AC and DC power
from the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger before attempting any maintenance or
cleaning or working on any circuits connected to the Freedom 10 Inverter/
Charger. Turning off controls will not reduce this risk.
10. The Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger must be provided with an equipmentgrounding conductor connected to the AC input ground.
975-0251-01-01
v
Safety
Explosive gas precautions
WARNING: Explosion hazard
1. Working in the vicinity of lead-acid batteries is dangerous. Batteries generate
explosive gases during normal operation. Therefore, you must read this guide
and follow the instructions exactly before installing or using your Freedom 10
Inverter/Charger.
2. This equipment contains components that tend to produce arcs or sparks. To
prevent fire or explosion, do not install the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger in
compartments containing batteries or flammable materials, or in locations that
require ignition-protected equipment. This includes any space containing
gasoline-powered machinery, fuel tanks, as well as joints, fittings, or other
connections between components of the fuel system.
3. To reduce the risk of battery explosion, follow these instructions and those
published by the battery manufacturer and the manufacturer of the equipment
in which the battery is installed.
Precautions When Working With Batteries
WARNING: Explosion or fire hazard
1. Follow all instructions published by the battery manufacturer and the
manufacturer of the equipment in which the battery is installed.
2. Make sure the area around the battery is well ventilated.
3. Never smoke or allow a spark or flame near the engine or batteries.
4. Use caution to reduce the risk or dropping a metal tool on the battery. It could
spark or short circuit the battery or other electrical parts and could cause an
explosion.
5. Remove all metal items, like rings, bracelets, and watches when working with
lead-acid batteries. Lead-acid batteries produce a short circuit current high
enough to weld metal to skin, causing a severe burn.
6. Have someone within range of your voice or close enough to come to your aid
when you work near a lead-acid battery.
7. Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin,
clothing, or eyes.
vi
975-0251-01-01
Safety
8. Wear complete eye protection and clothing protection. Avoid touching your
eyes while working near batteries.
9. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and
water. If acid enters your eye, immediately flood it with running cold water
for at least twenty minutes and get medical attention immediately.
10. If you need to remove a battery, always remove the ground terminal from the
battery first. Make sure all accessories are off so you don’t cause a spark.
Precautions for Using Rechargeable Appliances
CAUTION: Equipment damage
Most rechargeable battery-operated equipment uses a separate charger or
transformer that is plugged into an AC receptacle and produces a low voltage
charging output.
Some chargers for small rechargeable batteries can be damaged if connected to the
Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger. Do not use the following with the Freedom 10
Inverter/Charger:
•
•
Small battery-operated appliances like flashlights, razors, and night lights that
can be plugged directly into an AC receptacle to recharge.
Some chargers for battery packs used in power hand tools. These affected
chargers display a warning label stating that dangerous voltages are present at
the battery terminals.
Important: if you are unsure about using your rechargeable appliance with the
Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger, contact the equipment manufacturer to find out if there are
high voltages at the battery terminals or if the appliance incorporates the use of
transformers.
975-0251-01-01
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viii
Contents
Important Safety Instructions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -v
1 Introduction
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
Things You Should Know- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
Intended Use - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
Circuit Breaker Protection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
Electronic Protection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4
Inverter ldle Circuit - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4
Power Sharing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4
2 Installation
Installation Precautions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Appropriate Applications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Key Installation Points - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3
Recreational Vehicle Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–4
Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–4
Grounding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–5
Neutral Bonding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–5
AC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–6
Residual Current Circuit Breaker - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–7
Remote Control Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–7
DC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–8
Battery Cable Fusing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9
Marine Installation- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10
Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10
Grounding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11
Neutral Bonding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11
AC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12
Residual Current Circuit Breaker - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13
Remote Control Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13
DC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–14
Battery Cable Fusing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15
Residential Solar Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–16
Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–16
Grounding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17
Neutral Bonding - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17
AC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–18
Residual Current Circuit Breaker - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–19
Remote Control Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–19
DC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–20
Battery Cable Fusing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–21
975-0251-01-01
ix
Contents
3 Operation
Freedom 10 Power Switch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
Remote Control Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
12 V Models - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
24 V Models - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
Power Switch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
System Status LEDs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
DC Volts Bar Graph - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4
DC Amps Bar Graph - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4
DIP Switches - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4
DIP Switch Status - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–6
DIP Switch Programming - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–6
Remote Control Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
Remote Power Consumption - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
Link 2000 Remote Control Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
Batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
Battery Types - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
Wet Cell Batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
Gel-Cell Batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
Battery Interconnection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9
Series - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9
Parallel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–10
Battery Bank Ratings and Sizing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–10
Battery Charging - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–12
Conventional Battery Chargers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–12
The Freedom Battery Charger - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–12
Equalizing Batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–14
Charging Over-Discharged Batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–15
Battery Charger Voltage Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–16
4 Troubleshooting
Using the Remote Control DC Amps LED Bar Graph - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2
Troubleshooting Guide - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2
A
Specifications
Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–2
B
Glossary
Glossary of Terms - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - B–2
Warranty and Return Information
x
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–1
975-0251-01-01
1
Introduction
Chapter 1 describes the features and functions of the Freedom 10
Inverter/Charger.
Introduction
Introduction
This Owner’s Manual describes the Xantrex Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger. This
unit performs four distinct functions:
1. DC to AC power inverting
2. Automatic transfer switching between inverter power and incoming AC
power
3. Three-stage automatic battery charging plus manual battery equalizing
4. AC to DC power converter.
The inverter provides 1,000 watts of voltage and frequency-regulated AC power
from a deep-cycle battery bank. The output is a modified sine wave and is
compatible with virtually all consumer appliances. An idle circuit reduces battery
power consumption when the inverter is unloaded. There is a low battery cutout
circuit and considerable momentary surge power is available for starting electric
motors. High efficiency ensures the longest possible battery life between
recharges.
Hardware Included.
Figure 1-1 Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger
Transfer switch
The transfer switch allows the Freedom 10 to be connected to an external AC
source. Some of the external AC power is used to operate the battery charger, the
rest is switched through the unit to the output. Thus, the Freedom 10 operates as a
self-contained backup power system just by adding batteries. The power sharing
feature constantly senses the AC current being used by the battery charger and the
appliances connected to the output, and automatically reduces battery charger
power consumption if usage exceeds the input circuit breaker rating.
Battery charging
The Freedom 10 battery charger is electronically controlled and rated at
50 amps DC (25 amps DC for 24-volt systems). It is designed to rapidly and
optimally recharge either wet or gel cell deep-cycle batteries. Battery charging is
accomplished in three automatic stages: Bulk Charge, Acceptance, and Float
Charge. In addition, using the remote control, a manually engaged equalizing
charge cycle is possible.
1–2
975-0251-01-01
Things You Should Know
DC power supply
With an external AC source connected, the Freedom 10 charger also serves the
functions of an AC to DC converter to supply all of the DC loads that are
connected to the battery.
Simple, automatic operation is made possible by the microprocessor that is the
brain of the Freedom 10. In most cases, the unit is left on and no attention or
maintenance is required.
Optional remote
panel
Two optional remote control panels are available for the Freedom 10—one for
12 V models and one for 24 V models. These remote control panels provide a
power switch, system status LEDs, DC volts and DC amps LED bar graphs. In
addition, the remote control panel allows adjustment of the following settings:
•
•
•
•
•
•
three-stage or equalize charging
temperature
battery type
charger mode
idle sensitivity
power sharing.
Things You Should Know
WARNING: Unexpected operation
A transfer between inverter and charge modes of operation may temporarily take place
when the product is subjected to electrostatic discharge.
Intended Use
The Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger is intended:
•
•
•
•
as a DC to AC inverter/battery charger
for use in recreational vehicles, recreational marine vehicles, and residential
solar applications
to be permanently installed, not portable
to be used with a DC fuse as described in the installation section of this
manual.
Circuit Breaker Protection
The 15 amp circuit breaker on the front of the unit protects against sustained
inverter overloads. The breaker is reset by pressing the button. The 15 amp circuit
breaker protects the incoming AC circuit which is transferred through to the loads,
and feeds the battery charger.
975-0251-01-01
1–3
Introduction
Electronic Protection
Fast-acting electronic circuits protect the inverter from extreme overloads, low
and high battery voltage and over-temperature. They can be reset by cycling the
power switch off and on. The fault condition must be eliminated before reset will
occur. For example, remove the overload, recharge the batteries, or allow the unit
to cool. See “Troubleshooting” on page 4–1.
Inverter ldle Circuit
The inverter idle circuit is an automatic energy saving feature that reduces battery
power consumption when no load is present. Response from idle is instant. In
most cases, the operation of the idle circuit is not noticeable. Using the remote
control panel allows the idle circuit sensitivity to be adjusted.
Power Sharing
The Freedom 10 can automatically reduce the battery charger output, and
therefore the AC power consumption, if appliances are turned on that threaten to
trip the incoming circuit breaker. This feature can be adjusted using the remote
control panel. This feature is set to protect a 15-amp source by default.
1–4
975-0251-01-01
2
Installation
Chapter 2 contains information and procedures to install the Freedom
10 Inverter/Charger.
Topics in this chapter include:
• “Installation Precautions”
• “Recreational Vehicle Installation”
• “Marine Installation”
• “Residential Solar Installation”
Installation
Installation Precautions
WARNING: Fire or explosion hazard
This equipment is not ignition protected and employs components that tend to produce
arcs or sparks. To reduce the risk of fire or explosions, do not install in compartments
containing batteries or flammable materials or areas in which ignition-protected
equipment is required.
WARNING: Shock hazard and equipment failure
To reduce the risk of electric shock and prevent premature failure due to corrosion, do not
mount where exposed to rain or spray.
WARNING: Fire hazard
To prevent fire, do not obstruct ventilation openings. Do not mount in a zero clearance
compartment—overheating may result.
WARNING: Shock hazard
For continued protection against risk of electric shock use only the residual current circuit
breaker (RCCB) type receptacles. Other types may fail to operate properly when
connected to this inverter, resulting in a potential shock hazard.
WARNING: Shock hazard
Both AC and DC voltage sources are teminated inside this equipment.
Each circuit must be individually opened before servicing. When a solar array is exposed
to light it supplies DC voltage to the battery and this equipment.
WARNING: Shock hazard
Do not remove cover—no user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified
service personnel.
Important: The output of this device is not sinusoidal. It has a maximum total
harmonic distortion of 47% and a maximum single harmonic of 34%.
Application Information The Freedom 10 is provided with integral electronic
protection against AC and DC overloads.
Appropriate Applications
The Freedom 10 is appropriate for installation in recreational vehicle (RV),
residential solar installations, and marine applications. The installation
instructions for each application will be discussed separately. Refer to the separate
installation guide for typical installation examples.
2–2
975-0251-01-01
Installation Precautions
Key Installation Points
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
975-0251-01-01
Observe proper polarity when connecting batteries. Reverse DC polarity
will result in damage to the Freedom 10.
Do not backfeed the AC output of the inverter with incoming AC power.
Double check all aspects of your AC wiring for the possibility of backfeeding.
A backfeed will cause significant damage to your unit.
Do not connect the AC input to the AC output. In effect, this would be
plugging the battery charger into the inverter. This could occur if the Freedom
10 is connected to the entire leg of a circuit breaker panel, then a circuit
breaker on that leg is used to feed the battery charger. This will cause the unit
to oscillate on and off when the unit is in inverter mode.
Always use properly sized wire and connectors, keeping in mind that
considerable amperage flows in the DC circuit. Fusing the positive DC cable
is required.
Keep the Freedom 10 out of the elements and out of direct contact with
water. Remember that the unit is a piece of electronic equipment and treat it
accordingly.
Mount the unit as close to the batteries as possible but not in the presence
of flammable fumes or in an enclosed battery compartment.
Do not bolt the unit down until the AC, remote, and ground wiring is
completed.
2–3
Installation
Recreational Vehicle Installation
Before installing the inverter in a recreational vehicle, you must consider factors
such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
“Location” (see page 2–4)
“Grounding” (see page 2–5)
“Neutral Bonding” (see page 2–5)
“AC Wiring” (see page 2–6)
“Residual Current Circuit Breaker” (see page 2–7)
“Remote Control Wiring” (see page 2–7)
“DC Wiring” (see page 2–8)
“Battery Cable Fusing” (see page 2–9).
Location
The following factors should be considered when planning to install the
Freedom 10.
1. The chassis ground bonding lug is located on the bottom of the unit. Be
sure to make this connection before bolting the unit down.
For future use
May be used with
optional TC 2+2
(Battery Temp.
Sensor)
Remote Jack
Chassis Ground
Bonding Lug
Figure 2-1 Ground, AC, and Remote Connection Locations
2. Always mount the unit in a dry area, out of direct contact with water or
spray.
3. You may mount the unit horizontally (on a shelf) or vertically (on a wall or
bulkhead). If mounted vertically, you must orient the unit so the switch and
circuit breakers are facing up and the fan and battery cables are facing down.
2–4
975-0251-01-01
Recreational Vehicle Installation
4. Allow 13 cm (minimum) of clearance around the unit and allow for a supply
of fresh air to the cooling fan. Do not block any of the vents or louvers. The
fan pulls air from outside the unit. It blows the air across the internal
components, particularly the transformer and heat sinks, then out the side
vents.
5. The mounting location should be as close to the batteries as possible. The
battery cables can be extended, however each cable must not be over 3.04 m
in total length from the inverter to battery terminals. Do not use the RV
chassis as a negative conductor.
WARNING: Fire hazard and equipment damage
Do not mount the unit in an enclosed battery compartment. Take precautions to keep road
dirt and spray out of the unit.
Grounding
For safety purposes, the chassis of the Freedom 10 must be connected to your
AC ground system. The chassis ground bonding lug is located on the bottom of
the unit. This connector can accept two wires. The first is used to connect the unit
to AC ground. The second can be used to connect other AC equipment to ground.
Use 5.0 mm2 ES (Euro Standard) green insulated wire. Strip one end and use a
screwdriver to secure it to the chassis ground bonding lug. This wire will connect
to the ground in your AC electrical system, typically the vehicle chassis. Make
sure the connection is clean and tight.
This procedure will connect the chassis of your Freedom 10 to AC ground. In
addition, the AC input and AC output green/yellow wires are connected to chassis
ground. It is important to connect these wires to the AC ground bus in the circuit
breaker panel.
Please note that the battery cables are not connected to ground or the chassis of the
Freedom 10.
Neutral Bonding
For safety purposes, the Freedom 10 internally bonds the blue AC output neutral
wire to the green/yellow AC ground wire when the unit is OFF or in the inverter
mode. When incoming AC power is applied and the transfer switch is engaged,
the internal neutral-to-ground bond is automatically lifted.
This means that when the RV is in a campground, the grounding system is
connected to the shore power ground, where neutral and earth ground are bonded
together. This technique ensures safety in all conditions and conforms to the
requirements of numerous electrical codes. Refer to other applicable electrical
codes regarding connections between AC ground and DC ground.
975-0251-01-01
2–5
Installation
AC Wiring
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the AC wiring compartment
cover plate. See Figure 2-2.
Remove these screws
Wire Nut Connectors
Figure 2-2 AC Compartment Cover Plate Screws
Inside you will see that the compartment is divided into two sections, one labeled
AC INPUT, the other labeled AC OUTPUT. Each side contains three pigtails:
blue, brown, green/yellow. Wire nut connectors are provided.
Wire Color
Description
Brown
Hot or Line
Blue
Neutral
Green/Yellow
Ground
Solid Green (AC output only)
Internal output neutral to ground bonding conductor
Important: At the AC output, the green/yellow and solid green wires are already
connected together.
Two AC wiring knockouts are provided on the AC compartment cover plate. After
removing the knockouts, you can add strain reliefs for additional stability or
conduit fittings if the wiring will be routed through conduit. Flexible conduit is
recommended.
You must use 2.5 mm2 ES copper wire with insulation rated for 60 degrees
centigrade or higher for both the AC input and AC output.
2–6
975-0251-01-01
Recreational Vehicle Installation
AC Input
Route the 3-conductor AC input wires through the cover plate knockouts and into
the AC input compartment. You should have about 15 cm of individually
insulated brown, blue and green/yellow wire. Strip about 1 cm of insulation off
each conductor and connect to the Freedom 10 pigtails: brown to brown, blue to
blue and green/yellow to green/yellow.
Use the wire nuts provided to make the wire connections.
AC Output
Route the 3-conductor AC output wire through the cover plate knockouts and
connect in the same fashion.
In addition, if internal output neutral-to-ground bond is not required, remove the
solid green wire from the green/yellow wires and cap with a wire nut.
CAUTION: Backfeed damage
Do not connect incoming AC from any source to the AC output of the inverter. This is
known as backfeeding and will damage the unit and void the warranty.
Pull firmly on each connection to test it. These connections are the first thing to
check if the unit seems to operate improperly. Carefully and neatly tuck the wires
into the AC wiring compartment. Replace the cover plate.
Residual Current Circuit Breaker
In order to conform to the numerous electrical codes, certain branch circuits must
be equipped with a residual current circuit breaker (RCCB). Please consult the
code or a qualified electrician for details. Any such branch circuit must be
protected by a circuit breaker consistent with the (RCCB) rating.
Remote Control Wiring
The remote control is supplied with a 7.62 m or 15.24 m RJ11 remote cable for
connection to the unit. Simply plug one end of the cable into the remote connector
on the bottom of the unit and the other end into the connector on the back of the
remote control panel.
Routing the remote cable away from AC and DC wires will minimize the potential
for interference which may affect the LED bar displays.
The remote control cable can be extended up to 15.24 m if required. Use standard
4-conductor remote RJ11 cable. Use a single length of cable with no connectors or
in-line splices. If some remote RJ11 cable is left over, coil it up and store it in an
area away from AC equipment to prevent electrical interference.
Once the above steps have been completed the unit can be bolted down.
975-0251-01-01
2–7
Installation
DC Wiring
Two battery cables are provided with the unit. Both are black. The positive (+)
cable has a piece of red heat shrink insulation on the end. Keep in mind that high
current will pass through the DC wiring. All wires must be properly sized and all
connections clean and tight.
It is recommended that the battery cables not be lengthened at all. However, it is
possible to extend the cables if necessary. Extension cables must be 35.0 mm2 ES,
the same type of wire, and the total length for each battery cable must not exceed
3.04 m from the inverter to the battery terminal.
CAUTION: Reverse polarity hazard
The Freedom 10 is not DC reverse-polarity protected. Be very careful to connect the
negative and positive cables correctly, otherwise damage will result and the warranty will
be void.
Make sure the connections to the extension cables are tight and properly insulated.
Do not attempt to open the case and replace the battery cables.
The negative (–) cable should be connected directly to the negative post of the
battery bank or the ground side of a current shunt. Do not use the RV frame as the
negative conductor. Tighten securely.
The positive (+) battery cable will commonly lead to a positive distribution point.
This point typically connects to a battery switch rather than to the battery. The
total length should not exceed 3 m and should be fused.
A spark may be generated when the final battery connection is made. This is
normal and do not be alarmed. However, do not make the final connection in the
presence of flammable fumes.
Positive (+)
Battery Cable
Negative (–)
Battery Cable
Note: Full cables and connectors
not shown in this photograph.
Figure 2-3 DC End
2–8
975-0251-01-01
Recreational Vehicle Installation
Battery Cable Fusing
A fuse is required for safety reasons to protect the battery and cables. The fuse
must be installed in the positive battery cable, within 45.7 cm of the battery.
–
+
+ (red)
Figure 2-4 Fuse installation
Recommended fuse: Class T JLLN 200 amp
This fuse with fuse holder is available from your authorized dealer or directly
from Xantrex:
•
•
975-0251-01-01
Fuse and holder: PN# TFB200
Fuse only: PN# TF200
2–9
Installation
Marine Installation
Before installing the inverter in a marine application, you must consider factors
such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
“Location” (see page 2–10)
“Grounding” (see page 2–11)
“Neutral Bonding” (see page 2–11)
“AC Wiring” (see page 2–12)
“Residual Current Circuit Breaker” (see page 2–13)
“Remote Control Wiring” (see page 2–13)
“DC Wiring” (see page 2–14)
“Battery Cable Fusing” (see page 2–15).
Location
The following factors should be considered when planning to install the
Freedom 10.
1. The chassis ground bonding lug is located on the bottom of the unit. Be
sure to make this connection before bolting the unit down.
2. Always mount the unit in a dry area, out of direct contact with water or
spray.
3. You may mount the unit horizontally (on a shelf) or vertically (on a wall or
bulkhead). If mounted vertically, you must orient the unit so the switch and
circuit breakers are facing up and the fan and battery cables are facing down.
For future use
May be used with
optional TC 2+2
(Battery Temp.
Sensor)
Remote Jack
Chassis Ground
Bonding Lug
Figure 2-5 Ground, AC, and Remote Connection Locations
2–10
975-0251-01-01
Marine Installation
4. Allow 13 cm (minimum) of clearance around the unit and allow for a supply
of fresh air to the cooling fan. Do not block any of the vents or louvers. The
fan pulls air from outside the unit. It blows the air across the internal
components, particularly the transformer and heat sinks, then out the side
vents.
5. The mounting location should be as close to the batteries as possible. The
battery cables can be extended, however each cable must not be over 3.04 m
in total length from the inverter to the battery terminals.
Grounding
For safety purposes, the chassis of the Freedom 10 must be connected to your
AC ground system. The chassis ground bonding lug is located on the bottom of
the unit. This connector can accept two wires. The first is used to connect the unit
to AC ground, the second can be used to connect other AC equipment to ground.
WARNING: Fire hazard
Do not mount the unit in a gasoline powered engine compartment or in an enclosed battery
compartment. Diesel engine compartments are acceptable locations, but take
precautions to keep dirt and spray off the unit.
Use 5.0 mm2 ES (Euro Standard) green insulated wire. Strip one end and use a
screwdriver to secure it to the chassis ground bonding lug. This wire will connect
to the ground in your AC electrical system. Make sure the connection is clean and
tight.
This procedure will connect the chassis of your Freedom 10 to AC ground. In
addition, the AC input and AC output green/yellow wires are connected to chassis
ground. It is important to connect these wires to the AC ground bus in the circuit
breaker panel.
Please note that the battery cables are not connected to ground or the chassis of the
Freedom 10.
Neutral Bonding
For safety purposes, the Freedom 10 internally bonds the blue AC output neutral
wire to the green/yellow AC ground wire when the unit is OFF or in the inverter
mode. When incoming AC power is applied and the transfer switch is engaged,
the internal neutral-to-ground bond is automatically lifted.
This means that when the boat is in a marina, the grounding system is connected
to the shore power ground, where neutral and earth ground are bonded together.
This technique ensures safety and conforms to the requirements of numerous
electrical codes.
Refer to other applicable electrical codes regarding connections between AC
ground and DC ground for marine applications.
975-0251-01-01
2–11
Installation
AC Wiring
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws which secure the AC wiring compartment
cover plate.
Remove these screws
Wire Nut Connectors
Figure 2-6 AC Compartment Cover Plate Screws
Inside you will see the compartment is divided into two sections, one labeled AC
INPUT, the other labeled AC OUTPUT. Each side contains three pigtails: brown,
blue and green/yellow. Wire nut connectors are provided.
Wire Color
Description
Brown
Hot or Line
Blue
Neutral
Green/Yellow
Ground
Solid Green (AC output only)
Internal output neutral to ground bonding conductor
Important: At the AC output, the green/yellow and solid green wires are already
connected together.
Two AC wiring knockouts are provided on the AC compartment cover plate. After
removing the knockouts, you can add strain reliefs for additional stability or
conduit fittings if the wiring will be routed through conduit. Flexible conduit is
recommended.
You must use 2.5 mm2 ES copper wire with insulation rated for 60 degrees
centigrade or higher for both the AC input and AC output.
2–12
975-0251-01-01
Marine Installation
AC Input
Route the 3-conductor AC input wires through the cover plate knockouts and into
the AC input compartment. You should have about 15 cm of individually
insulated brown, blue and green/yellow wire. Strip about 1 cm of insulation off
each conductor and connect to the Freedom 10 pigtails: brown to brown, blue to
blue and green/yellow to green/yellow.
To meet marine electrical codes, you may want to use butt splices instead of the
wire nuts provided to make the wire connections.
AC Output
Route the 3-conductor AC output wire through the cover plate knockouts and
connect in the same fashion.
In addition, if internal output neutral-to-ground bond is not required, remove the
solid green wire from the green/yellow wires and cap with a wire nut.
CAUTION: Backfeed damage
Do not connect incoming AC from any source to the AC output of the inverter. This is
known as backfeeding and will damage the unit and void the warranty.
Pull firmly on each connection to test it. These connections are the first thing to
check if the unit seems to operate improperly. Carefully and neatly tuck the wires
into the AC wiring compartment. Replace the cover plate.
Residual Current Circuit Breaker
In order to conform to the numerous electrical codes, certain branch circuits must
be equipped with a residual current circuit breaker (RCCB). Please consult the
code or a qualified electrician for details. Any such branch circuit must be
protected by a circuit breaker consistent with the (RCCB) rating.
Remote Control Wiring
The remote control is supplied with 7.62 m or 15.24 m RJ11 remote cable for
connection to the unit. Simply plug one end of the cable into the remote connector
on the bottom of the unit and the other end into the connector on the back of the
remote control panel.
Routing the remote cable away from AC and DC wires will minimize the potential
for interference that may affect the LED bar displays. The remote control cable
can be extended up to 15.24 m if required. Use standard 4-conductor remote RJ11
cable. Use a single length of cable with no connectors or in-line splices. If some
remote RJ11 cable is left over, coil it up and store it in an area away from AC
equipment to prevent electrical interference.
Once the above steps have been completed the unit can be bolted down.
975-0251-01-01
2–13
Installation
DC Wiring
Two battery cables are provided with the unit. Both are black. The positive (+)
cable has a piece of red heat shrink insulation on the end. Keep in mind that high
current will pass through the DC wiring. All wires must be properly sized and all
connections clean and tight.
It is recommended that the battery cables not be lengthened at all. However, it is
possible to extend the cables if necessary. Extension cables must be 35.0 mm2 ES,
the same type of wire, and the total length for each battery cable must not exceed
3.04 m from the inverter to the battery terminal.
CAUTION: Reverse polarity hazard
The Freedom 10 is not DC reverse-polarity protected. Be very careful to connect the
negative and positive cables correctly, otherwise damage will result and the warranty will
be void.
Make sure the connections to the extension cables are tight and properly insulated.
Do not attempt to open the case and replace the battery cables.
The negative (–) cable should be connected directly to the negative post of the
battery bank or the ground side of a current shunt. Do not use a negative bus or
bonding system as the negative conductor. Tighten securely.
The positive (+) battery cable will commonly lead to a positive distribution point.
This point typically connects to a battery switch rather than to the battery. The
total length should not exceed 3 m and should be fused.
A spark may be generated when the final battery connection is made. This is
normal and do not be alarmed. However, do not make the final connection in the
presence of flammable fumes.
Positive (+)
Battery Cable
Negative (–)
Battery Cable
Note: Full cables and connectors
not shown in this photograph.
Figure 2-7 DC End
2–14
975-0251-01-01
Marine Installation
Battery Cable Fusing
A fuse is required for safety reasons to protect the battery and cables. The fuse
must be installed in the positive battery cable, within 45.7 cm of the battery.
–
+
+ (red)
Figure 2-8 Fuse installation
Recommended fuse: Class T JLLN 200 amp
This fuse with fuse holder is available from your authorized dealer or directly
from Xantrex:
•
•
975-0251-01-01
Fuse and holder: PN# TFB200
Fuse only: PN# TF200
2–15
Installation
Residential Solar Installation
Before installing the inverter in a residential solar application, you must consider
factors such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
“Location” (see page 2–16)
“Grounding” (see page 2–17)
“Neutral Bonding” (see page 2–17)
“AC Wiring” (see page 2–18)
“Residual Current Circuit Breaker” (see page 2–19)
“Remote Control Wiring” (see page 2–19)
“DC Wiring” (see page 2–20)
“Battery Cable Fusing” (see page 2–21).
Location
The following factors should be considered when planning to install the
Freedom 10.
1. The chassis ground bonding lug is located on the bottom of the unit. Be
sure to make this connection before bolting the unit down.
For future use
May be used with
optional TC 2+2
(Battery Temp.
Sensor)
Remote Jack
Chassis Ground
Bonding Lug
Figure 2-9 Ground, AC, and Remote Connection Locations
2. Always mount the unit in a dry area, out of direct contact with water or spray.
3. You may mount the unit horizontally (on a shelf) or vertically (on a wall).
If mounted vertically, you must orient the unit so the switch and circuit
breakers are facing up and the fan and battery cables are facing down.
2–16
975-0251-01-01
Residential Solar Installation
4. Allow 13 cm (minimum) of clearance around the unit and allow for a supply
of fresh air to the cooling fan. Do not block any of the vents or louvers.
5. The mounting location should be as close to the batteries as possible. The
battery cables can be extended, however each cable must not be over 3.04 m
in total length from the inverter to battery terminals.
WARNING: Fire hazard and equipment damage
Do not mount the unit in an area exposed to flammable fumes or in an enclosed battery
compartment.
Grounding
For safety purposes, the chassis of the Freedom 10 must be connected to your
AC ground system. The chassis grounding terminal is located on the bottom of
the unit. This connector can accept two wires. The first is used to connect the unit
to the earth grounding system, the second can be used to connect other equipment
to the grounding system, through the unit.
Use 5.0 mm2 ES (Euro Standard) green insulated or bare copper wire if no
other equipment is grounded through the unit. If additional equipment is
connected to the chassis grounding terminal, larger wire may be required. Consult
local electrical codes for details.
Strip one end of the wire and use a screwdriver to secure it to the chassis
grounding terminal. This wire will connect to the equipment ground system either
at the earth ground electrode or at an electrical equipment enclosure ground
bonding terminal. In either case, you must ensure that the ground bonding wire
does not become smaller between the Freedom 10 and earth ground point. Make
sure each connection is clean and tight.
This procedure will connect the chassis of your Freedom 10 to ground. In addition,
the AC input and AC output green wires are connected to chassis ground. It is
important to connect these wires to the AC ground bus in the circuit breaker panel.
Please note that neither of the battery cables is connected to ground or the chassis
of the Freedom 10.
Neutral Bonding
For safety purposes, the Freedom 10 internally bonds the blue AC output neutral
wire to the green/yellow AC ground wire when the unit is OFF or in the inverter
mode. When incoming AC power is applied and the transfer switch is engaged,
the internal neutral to ground bond is automatically lifted.
This technique meets safety requirements of numerous electrical codes. Refer to
other applicable electrical codes regarding connections between AC ground and
DC ground.
975-0251-01-01
2–17
Installation
AC Wiring
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the AC wiring compartment
cover plate.
Remove these screws
Wire Nut Connectors
Figure 2-10 AC Compartment Cover Plate Screws
Inside you will see that the compartment is divided into two sections, one labeled
AC INPUT, the other labeled AC OUTPUT. Each side contains three pigtails:
brown, blue, green/yellow. Wire nut connectors are provided.
Wire Color
Description
Brown
Hot or Line
Blue
Neutral
Green/Yellow
Ground
Solid Green (AC output only)
Internal output neutral to ground bonding conductor
Important: At the AC output, the green/yellow and solid green wires are already
connected together.
Two AC wiring knockouts are provided on the AC compartment cover plate. After
removing the knockouts, you can add strain reliefs for additional stability or
conduit fittings if the wiring will be routed through conduit. Flexible conduit is
recommended.
You must use 2.5 mm2 ES copper wire with insulation rated for 60 degrees
centigrade or higher for both the AC input and AC output.
2–18
975-0251-01-01
Residential Solar Installation
AC Input
Route the 3-conductor AC input wires through the cover plate knockouts and into
the AC input compartment. You should have about 15 cm of individually
insulated brown, blue and green/yellow wire. Strip about 1 cm of insulation off
each conductor and connect to the Freedom 10 pigtails: brown to brown, blue to
blue and green/yellow to green/yellow.
Use the wire nuts provided to make the wire connections.
AC Output
Route the 3-conductor AC output wire through the cover plate knockouts and
connect in the same fashion.
In addition, if internal output neutral-to-ground bond is not required, remove the
solid green wire from the green/yellow wires and cap with a wire nut.
CAUTION: Backfeed damage
Do not connect incoming AC from any source to the AC output of the inverter. This is
known as backfeeding and will damage the unit and void the warranty.
Pull firmly on each connection to test it. These connections are the first thing to
check if the unit seems to operate improperly. Carefully and neatly tuck the wires
into the AC wiring compartment. Replace the cover plate.
Residual Current Circuit Breaker
In order to conform to the numerous electrical codes, certain branch circuits must
be equipped with a residual current circuit breaker (RCCB). Please consult the
code or a qualified electrician for details. Any such branch circuit must be
protected by a circuit breaker consistent with the (RCCB) rating.
Remote Control Wiring
The remote control is supplied with a 7.62 m or 15.24 m RJ11 remote cable for
connection to the unit. Simply plug one end of the cable into the remote connector
on the bottom of the unit and the other end into the connector on the back of the
remote control panel.
Routing the remote cable away from AC and DC wires will minimize the potential
for interference that may affect the LED bar graphs.
The remote control cable can be extended up to 15.24 m if required. Use standard
4-conductor remote RJ11 cable. Use a single length of cable with no connectors or
in-line splices. If some remote RJ11 cable is left over, coil it up and store it in an
area away from AC equipment to prevent electrical interference.
Once the above steps have been completed, the unit can be bolted down.
975-0251-01-01
2–19
Installation
DC Wiring
Two battery cables are provided with the unit. Both are black. The positive (+)
cable has a piece of red heat shrink insulation on the end. Keep in mind that high
current will pass through the DC wiring. All wires must be properly sized and all
connections clean and tight.
It is recommended that the battery cables not be lengthened at all. However, it is
possible to extend the cables if necessary. Extension cables must be 35.0 mm2 ES,
the same type of wire, and the total length for each battery cable must not exceed
3.04 m from the inverter to the battery terminal.
CAUTION: Reverse polarity hazard
The Freedom 10 is not DC reverse polarity protected. Be very careful to connect the
negative and positive cables correctly, otherwise damage will result and the warranty will
be void.
Make sure the connections to the extension cables are tight and properly insulated.
Do not attempt to open the case and replace the battery cables.
The negative (–) cable should be connected directly to the negative post of the
battery bank or the ground side of a current shunt. Tighten securely.
The positive (+) battery cable will commonly lead to a positive distribution point.
This point typically connects to a battery switch rather than to the battery. The
total length should not exceed 3 m and should be fused.
A spark may be generated when the final battery connection is made. This is
normal and do not be alarmed. However, do not make the final connection in the
presence of flammable fumes.
Positive (+)
Battery Cable
Negative (–)
Battery Cable
Note: Full cables and connectors
not shown in this photograph.
Figure 2-11 DC End
2–20
975-0251-01-01
Residential Solar Installation
Battery Cable Fusing
A fuse is required for safety reasons to protect the battery and cables. The fuse
must be installed in the positive battery cable, within 45.7 cm of the battery.
–
+
+ (red)
Figure 2-12 Fuse installation
Recommended fuse: Class T JLLN 200 amp
This fuse with fuse holder is available from your authorized dealer or directly
from Xantrex:
•
•
975-0251-01-01
Fuse and holder: PN# TFB200
Fuse only: PN# TF200
2–21
2–22
3
Operation
Chapter 3 describes the operation of the Freedom 10 Inverter/
Charger.
Topics in this chapter include:
• “Freedom 10 Power Switch”
• “Remote Control Panel”
• “Batteries” and “Battery Charging”
Operation
Freedom 10 Power Switch
The power switch is located on the front panel of the Freedom 10. This switch
controls ON/OFF and RESET for the inverter. Expect a 3-second delay when the
power switch is turned ON before the unit is activated.
If installed with the remote control panel, the power switch on the unit itself
should be left in the OFF position.
If the unit is connected to external AC power, the power switch may be turned off,
but the battery charger will continue to function. The internal transfer switch will
continue to be engaged with the switch off and AC power will be available at the
output of the unit. If AC power is removed, the unit will not come on as an
inverter.
Figure 3-1 Freedom 10 Power Switch
Important: The power switch controls the inverter function. Placing the switch in the
OFF
position disables the inverter and connects mains to the output.
Remote Control Panel
12 V Models
The remote control panel provides LED bar graphs that show system status,
battery voltage, and current in both inverter and charge modes. For more
information about this remote, refer to its owner’s manual.
Figure 3-2 Remote Control Panel For 12 V Models
3–2
975-0251-01-01
Remote Control Panel
24 V Models
This section contains information about the remote control panel for 24 V models.
The remote control panel provides LED bar graphs that show system status,
battery voltage, and current in both inverter and charge modes. These bar graphs
can also display DIP switch positions and shutdown conditions.
Figure 3-3 Remote Control Panel for 24 V Models
Power Switch
The switch on the remote is used to control the inverter and can be used to control
the battery charger function also. When a remote control is used, the power switch
on the unit itself should be left in the OFF position.
System Status LEDs
These four LEDs monitor the system as described in Table 3-1.
Table 3-1 System Status LED summary
975-0251-01-01
Status LED
Appearance
Purpose
BATTERY
On Steady
This is a warning condition.
Inverter mode: Battery > 30.5 or < 21 volts
Charger mode: Battery > 30.5 or < 20 volts.
BATTERY
Blinking
Indicates either a shutdown or equalizing.
Battery > 31 volts will automatically reset at 30.5.
Inverter mode: Battery < 20 volts, will
automatically reset at charger float voltage or upon
AC input.
Charger mode: Battery < 16 volts for 1 minute,
remove all DC loads and manually reset by cycling
the power switch.
OVERLOAD
On Steady
Indicates an over-temperature condition, the unit is
shut down.
3–3
Operation
Table 3-1 System Status LED summary
Status LED
Appearance
Purpose
OVERLOAD
Blinking
Inverter mode: shutdown. Diagnose problem with
DC amps bar graph.
Charger mode: thermal shutdown. After cooling,
reset by cycling power switch.
AC INPUT
On Steady
Illuminates when incoming AC power has been
applied and the transfer relays have been engaged.
There is a 7- to 12-second delay from the time the
AC is applied and this LED illuminates.
INV/CHRG
On Steady
Power On light. It will be illuminated whenever
the power switch is on (inverter on) or whenever
there is incoming AC power and the charger comes
on.
DC Volts Bar Graph
These LEDs indicate battery voltage as measured inside the Freedom 10. Each
LED segment indicates 1 volt. The DC volts bar graph will stop indicating battery
voltage and display the DIP switch settings if the unit shuts down due to an
overload. It will return to indicating battery voltage only after the unit has been
reset.
DC Amps Bar Graph
These LEDs approximate DC input current in inverter mode and DC output
current in battery charger mode. Two ranges are used.
1. Below 25 amps each segment represents a 5 amp increment.
2. Above 25 amps each segment represents a 10 amp increment.
Above 65 amps a flashing LED segment indicates the value displayed plus
50 amps (for example, a flashing 25 LED is equal to 25 + 50 or 75 amps DC). If
the inverter is in its idle mode, the bottom LED segment will be out. As soon as
the unit is pulled out of idle, the bottom segment will illuminate. This indicator is
useful when adjusting the idle sensitivity using the DIP switches.
The DC amps bar graph will stop indicating DC amps and will indicate the type of
problem if a shutdown occurs. Each LED segment indicates a different problem as
described in “Using the Remote Control DC Amps LED Bar Graph” on page 4–2.
DIP Switches
On the back of the Freedom remote control panel is a series of eight DIP switches
that are used to make several adjustments. If you look closely at the switch block
you will see that each switch is labeled, 1 through 8, and the ON position is
indicated (see Figure 3-4). The switch settings can be changed at any time, even
while the unit is operating. Following is a discussion of each adjustment. Refer to
“DIP Switch Programming” on page 3–6 for a summary.
3–4
975-0251-01-01
Remote Control Panel
Figure 3-4 Freedom Remote Control Dip Switches
Equalize or Three-Stage Charging (Switch #1) Cycling this switch ON for 1
second, then OFF, will initiate an equalizing charge cycle. The battery charger
must be engaged before cycling the switch. The switch must always be left in the
OFF position. If it is left ON, an equalizing charge cycle will initiate every time the
charger is engaged - this could cause battery damage. The equalizing cycle is
timed to last 8 hours from the time the switch is cycled, at which point the charger
resumes normal charging in the float stage. The BATTERY LED blinks when
equalizing. Refer to page 3–14 for a discussion of the theory and procedure for
battery equalizing.
Battery Type (Switch #2 and 3) Gel cell and wet cell batteries have slightly
different charge voltage requirements and optimum battery charging is
temperature dependent. For these reasons, the DIP switches allow four different
battery charger voltage set points, depending on battery type and ambient
temperature:
Battery Type and
Temperature
Switch Position
Switch 2
Switch 3
Off
Off
Warm Wet Cell (> 27 °C) On
Off
Cool Gel Cell (< 27 °C)
Off
On
Warm Gel Cell (> 27 °C) On
On
Cool Wet Cell (< 27 °C)
See page 3–16 for the specific voltages for each setting.
Auto Charge (Switch #4) With the switch in the OFF position, the remote panel
ON/OFF switch only controls the inverter operation. With the switch turned ON, this
switch allows the power ON/OFF switch on the front of the remote to control the
battery charger as well as the inverter.
975-0251-01-01
3–5
Operation
Idle Sensitivity (Switch #5 and 6) Most installations will be connected to the
electrical system. With no appliances turned on, this represents a small load. This
is due to the capacitance of the wires. Using a trial and error process, the idle
circuit can be adjusted until the unit will detect small loads but still drop into idle
mode when all loads are shut off.
Some small loads may not pull the unit out of idle mode. In this case, you may
disable the idle circuit or use an additional load, such as a small incandescent
light, to first activate the idle circuitry. You can confirm if the unit is in idle mode
by checking the DC Amps bar graph, the lowest LED goes out only when the unit
is in idle mode.
A volt meter can also be used to confirm the idle condition. Idle mode output
voltage will typically measure between 10 and 55 volts with an averaging AC volt
meter. Refer to the Troubleshooting section for a discussion of measuring inverter
output voltage with a meter.
Power Sharing (Switch #7 and 8) These switches should be set to match the
value of the circuit breaker which protects the incoming AC power. For instance,
in most RV parks or marinas a 15-amp circuit is available. Use the 2-amp setting
for small generators, or for charging deeply discharged batteries. See page 3–15.
DIP Switch Status
You can check the position of the DIP switches by quickly cycling the power
switch off and on twice. The DC Volts bar graph will cease to display battery
voltage and will indicate the setting of each DIP switch. In this mode the bottom
LED will illuminate if switch 1 is on, etc. DIP switch settings are indicated for 10
seconds after which time the display returns to indicating battery voltage.
DIP Switch Programming
Table 3-2 DIP switch function and position summary
Feature
Switch Number
Equalize or 3-Stage
Charging
1
**Battery Type
Auto Charge
Toggle On/Off
Equalize (Do not leave on.)
Off
3-Stage Charging*
2
3
On
On
Warm Gel Cell (>27 °C)
Off
On
Cool Gel Cell (<27 °C)
On
Off
Warm Wet Cell (>27 °C)
Off
Off
Cool Wet Cell (<27 °C)*
4
On
3–6
Set Point
Disable: Charger responds to
On/Off switch.
975-0251-01-01
Link 2000 Remote Control Panel
Table 3-2 DIP switch function and position summary
Feature
Idle Sensitivity
Power Sharing
Switch Number
Set Point
Off
Enable: Charger on when
AC connected.*
5
6
On
On
Idle disabled
Off
On
15 watts
On
Off
6 watts
Off
Off
4 watts*
7
8
On
On
2 amps
Off
On
5 amps
On
Off
10 amps
Off
Off
15 amps*
* Default setting.
** Refer to voltages under “Battery Charger Voltage Settings”.
Remote Control Wiring
The remote control panel is supplied with 7.62 m or 15.24 m of RJ11 remote
cable. The cable supplied may have 6 conductors; however, only 4 conductors are
required. You may buy standard 4-conductor telephone cable and run up to
15.24 m if desired. Use only a single length of telephone wire—do not splice.
Remote Power Consumption
Table 3-3 System current consumption versus idle mode
Idle Mode
With Remote
Without Remote
Normal Idle
181 mA
120 mA
Idle Circuit Disabled
496 mA
n/a
Unit Shut Off
16 mA
7 mA
Link 2000 Remote Control Panel
The Link 2000 and 2000R offer increased monitoring and control options. In
addition to providing inverter/charger control, the Link 2000 enables precision
monitoring of DC voltage, current, and amp hours for two battery banks.
The Link 2000R adds the ability to control an engine driven alternator. This
precision regulator transforms an alternator into a 3 stage battery charging system
like the charger in the Freedom 10.
If a Link 2000 or 2000R remote is being used to control the inverter/charger, refer
to the Link manual for setup and control information.
975-0251-01-01
3–7
Operation
Batteries
This section discusses how battery types, connection, and battery bank size affect
the operation of your inverter/charger.
Battery Types
Use only deep-cycle batteries with your Freedom 10. These fall into two broad
categories: wet cell and gel cell.
Wet Cell Batteries
True deep-cycle wet cell batteries are characterized by relatively thick plates that
are alloyed with antimony.
Common Marine/RV deep-cycle batteries are the least expensive and lowest
quality battery that is acceptable. Golf cart batteries are much better in terms of
performance and life. These are 6-volt batteries that must be used in series pairs.
High quality marine deep-cycle batteries offer good performance and are
available in a wide variety of sizes. Floor sweeper, fork lift or large 2-volt cells
can also offer excellent performance if their large size can be accommodated.
It should be noted that high antimony deep-cycle batteries will give off gasses as a
natural result of charging and will experience some water loss. It is very
important that the electrolyte level be checked frequently and topped off with
distilled water when necessary. Never allow the tops of the plates to be exposed to
air, as contamination of the cell will result. Keeping the tops of the batteries clean
will reduce self-discharging. Always provide ventilation for the battery storage
compartment.
Do not use car batteries or engine starting batteries of any kind with your
inverter/charger. In general, most wet cell batteries that are described as hybrid
batteries, suitable for either engine starting or deep-cycle applications are a
compromise and will give limited life if deeply discharged. Beware of 8-D
batteries which are commonly used for starting diesel engines. These batteries
are often not deep-cycle.
Beware of batteries described as “maintenance-free.” These batteries have
calcium alloyed with the lead and hold the liquid electrolyte in a sponge-like
material. They are sealed and water cannot be added. Do not confuse them with
true gel cell batteries; they will not hold up to deep discharging. These batteries
typically have thin plates and are best suited as engine starting batteries.
Gel-Cell Batteries
These are lead-acid batteries similar in many ways to the common wet cell
battery, but differences in the chemistry and construction provide some unique
features.
3–8
975-0251-01-01
Batteries
No Maintenance
There is no need to add water and the tops of the batteries stay clean. Also the
batteries can be used in any position and are Coast Guard approved for use
without a battery box.
Low Self-Discharge
Rate
Unlike wet cell batteries, the gel cell will hold its charge for months if left sitting
with no load and no float charge. They can be stored in the off-season without a
constant float charge and without fear of freezing.
Low Internal
Resistance
The result of this is a higher battery voltage under load, which will result in better
inverter performance on demanding high power loads. In addition this allows the
gel cell to accept a high rate of charge, a plus for rapid recharging.
No Sulfation
The combination of acids in the gel cell prevents sulfation and eliminates the need
for battery equalization.
The result of these features is a battery that solves many common problems. Cycle
life is high, even under constant deep discharging. For all these reasons the gel
cell is highly recommended.
Battery Interconnection
In most cases, you will be using a bank of two or more batteries with your
inverter/charger. You may connect batteries together in two configurations: series
and parallel.
Series
Connecting two batteries in series will double the voltage of the battery bank.
For instance, two 6-volt batteries connected in series will produce 12 volts; four in
series will produce 24-volts. The amp hour capacity of the battery bank will be the
same as each individual battery. As an example, two 6-volt, 220 amp-hour
batteries in series will produce one 12-volt, 220 amp-hour battery bank.
+
+
–
–
Figure 3-5 Series Battery Connection
975-0251-01-01
3–9
Operation
Parallel
Connecting two batteries in parallel will double the amp hour rating of the
battery bank, while the voltage will be the same as each individual battery.
For example, two 12 volt 105 amp-hour batteries in parallel will produce one
12-volt, 210 amp-hour battery bank.
+
–
+
–
Figure 3-6 Parallel Battery Connection
Only similar batteries should be connected together in one bank. Do not
connect old and new batteries or wet and gel cell batteries together. In the above
drawing, note that the load is connected to the positive terminal of the first battery
and the negative terminal of the last battery. This practice helps to balance the
battery bank.
Important: Always use proper terminals for your interconnecting battery cables and
cable which is 2 AWG or larger.
Battery Bank Ratings and Sizing
Deep-cycle batteries are usually rated in amp hours. The amp-hour rating is
based on a 20-hour discharge cycle; therefore, a 100 amp-hour battery can deliver
5 amps for 20 hours. If the discharge rate is greater than 5 amps, the available amp
hours are decreased. If the load is increased to 100 amps, only about 45 amp hours
will be available.
Another common rating is reserve capacity expressed in minutes. This is derived
by placing a 25 amp load on the battery and measuring the time until the battery
voltage reaches 10.5 volts.
Deep-cycle batteries can be discharged about 80% before permanent damage
occurs, though shallower cycling will result in much longer battery life. Fifty per
cent cycling is generally considered to be a good compromise between long
battery life and a reasonably sized battery bank.
To achieve 50% cycling, you should calculate your amp-hour consumption
between charging cycles and use a battery bank with twice that capacity.**
3–10
975-0251-01-01
Batteries
To calculate amp-hour consumption, first look at the rating plate on your AC
appliances. Each appliance will be rated in either AC amps or AC watts or AC VA
(volt-amps) apparent power. Use one of the following formulas to calculate the
DC amp-hour draw for a 12-volt system:
(AC amps × 10) × 1.1 × hours of operation = DC amp hours *
(AC watts ÷ 12) × 1.1 × hours of operation = DC amp hours *
(AC VA ÷ 12) × 1.1 × hours of operation = DC amp hours *
In all formulas, 1.1 is the factor for inverter efficiency.
* Divide amp hours by 2 for 24-volt systems.
** Batteries are frequently charged to 85% of full charge when charging with
alternators without 3-stage regulators.
Calculate the above for every AC appliance you intend to use on your inverter.
This will give you the total number of amp hours used between recharges. Size
your battery bank using this number as a guideline. A good rule to follow is to size
the battery bank about two times larger than your total amp hour load requirement.
Plan on recharging when 50% discharged.
Table 3-4 Typical Power Consumption
Appliance
Appliance Run Times/Amp Hours*
Typical
Wattage 5 min 15 min 30 min 1 hr.
2 hr.
3 hr.
8 hr.
24 hr.
13" color TV
50
0.33
1
2
4
8
12
32
96
19" color TV
100
0.66
2
4
8
16
24
64
192
VCR
50
0.33
1
2
4
8
12
32
96
Lamp
100
0.66
2
4
8
16
24
64
192
Blender
300
2
6
12
Curling iron
50
0.33
1
2
3/8" power drill
500
3.3
10
20
Icemaker*
200
2.6
5.2
10.4
15.6
41.6
83.2
Coffee maker
1000
40
80
160
3 cu. foot refrigerator*
150
2
4
8
12
32
96
21
42
84
126
336
672
6.6
20
20 cu. foot refrigerator* 750
Compact microwave
750
5
15
30
60
120
180
Full-size microwave
1500
10
30
60
120
240
360
Vacuum
1100
7.3
22
44
88
176
264
The number in each box represents the amp hours used (at 12 volts DC) based on
various continuous run times.
* Note: refrigeration is typically calculated using a 1/3 duty cycle.
975-0251-01-01
3–11
Operation
Battery Charging
Completely recharging wet cell deep-cycle batteries requires that the battery
voltage be raised beyond what is known as the gassing point. This is the voltage at
which the battery begins to bubble and gas is given off. If charging stops short of
this point, sulfate is left on the plates and deterioration of the battery begins. The
gassing point will vary with battery temperature. At 25 degrees C, the gassing
point of a 12-volt battery is about 14.0 volts. Battery charging without excessive
gassing of the batteries is accomplished with three-stage chargers. This technique
is used in the Freedom 10.
Gel cell batteries must not be charged to their gassing point. In fact high voltage
charging that gasses these batteries is harmful to them. These batteries do not give
off water vapor. The float voltage can be higher than that of wet cell batteries.
Conventional Battery Chargers
Most conventional battery chargers are single stage constant voltage chargers. As
such they must stop short of the gassing point or they will overcharge the battery
bank. Therefore, most 12-volt battery chargers bring the battery voltage up to
about 13.8 volts.
There are two problems with this. First, since the battery voltage does not reach
the gassing point, sulfate is left on the plates. Second, 13.8 volts is close enough to
the gassing point that some gas will escape, and the battery will need to be
frequently topped up with distilled water.
Conventional battery chargers also suffer from another inherent characteristic of
their design, which is a tapering output. While they will deliver their rated current
into a deeply discharged battery, as the battery becomes charged and the voltage
rises, the output current of the charger tapers down. This taper continues as the
battery is charged, taking a very long time to reach an acceptable recharge.
The Freedom Battery Charger
The Freedom battery chargers are designed to overcome the limitations of
conventional chargers by utilizing three distinct stages, each designed for optimal
recharging of both wet cell and gel cell deep-cycle batteries.
Important: The Freedom 10 Battery Charger is on whenever there is AC power
connected to the charger input, regardless of the condition of the ON/OFF switch.
Each time the battery charger is engaged, the three stages proceed automatically,
resulting in an efficient, complete recharge and safe battery maintenance. In
addition, use of the remote control provides the ability to periodically apply an
8-hour timed equalizing charge.
3–12
975-0251-01-01
Battery Charging
Amps
50
"Bulk Charge"
Constant Current
Freedom
Charger
40
"Acceptance Charge"
Constant Voltage
30
Finish "Float"
Charge
20
Equalizing
10
11
Traditional
Charger
100 Amp
Taper Charger
12
13
Volts
14
15
16
Quicker, more complete recharging, safe long-term charging
and battery rejuvenation through an equalizing charge.
Figure 3-7 Benefits of the Freedom Charger vs. the Traditional Taper Charger
The battery charger stages are:
•
•
975-0251-01-01
Stage 1—Bulk Charge. During the bulk charge stage most of the charge
current is delivered to the battery bank. This phase is engaged as soon as the
battery charger is activated. Full rated charger current is delivered to the
battery bank until the bulk charge voltage limit is reached. This results in a
relatively rapid recharge.
It is generally agreed that a wet cell battery bank should not be charged up to
the gassing point at a rate that exceeds 25% of its capacity. In other words, a
12-volt battery bank of 520 amp hours should not be charged at over
130 amps.
Gel cell batteries can accept a higher rate of charge. Consult the manufacturer
for details.
Stage 2—Acceptance Charge. The acceptance stage immediately follows the
bulk charge stage. During this stage, the battery voltage is held constant at the
bulk charge voltage limit and the current gradually ramps down. During this
stage the battery is accepting its final amount of charge current and the last of
the sulfate on the plates is removed.
The acceptance stage lasts until the charge current reaches about 6 to 7 amps
(3 to 4 amps for a 24-volt system). A timer will terminate the acceptance stage
if this current level is not reached. This timer is set automatically when the
DIP switches for battery type are set. Maximum acceptance time is 1 hour for
wet cells and 3 hours for gel cells. Gel cell acceptance time can be increased
because the battery is not gassing. Expect wet cell batteries to gas somewhat
during acceptance. This is a necessary part of the charging process.
3–13
Operation
•
•
Stage 3—Float Charge. When the acceptance stage is terminated, either
because the charge current ramped down to 6 to 7 amps (3 to 4 amps for a
24-volt system) or the timer engaged, battery charger current will shut off
and the unit monitors the battery voltage while it drifts down from the bulk
charge voltage limit. When it reaches the float voltage set point, the float
charge stage is engaged.
The float charge stage holds the battery voltage at a lower level, where it is
safe for long-term battery maintenance. During the float charge stage the full
output current of the battery charger is available to operate any DC appliances
that may be on the system, while constantly maintaining the float charge
voltage.
The battery charger remains in the float charge stage indefinitely until the
charger is disconnected from incoming AC power.
Stage 4—Equalizing Charge. This is the only battery charger stage which is
not engaged automatically. It must be manually initiated each time using a
DIP switch on the rear of the remote control. Applying an equalizing charge is
not possible without the use of a remote.
Equalizing Batteries
Periodic equalizing is recommended by most wet cell deep-cycle battery
manufacturers. There are no firm rules for how often an equalizing charge should
be applied, but once a month is a good rule of thumb for batteries that are
regularly cycled, less often for systems in only occasional use.
The equalizing charge is a timed 8-hour cycle. If desired, it can be ended by
interrupting the AC power to the charger at any time during the cycle. Equalizing
should be engaged after the batteries have been fully charged by a normal battery
charging cycle. The battery voltage will increase to 16.3 (32.6 for a 24-volt
battery) using the cool temperature wet cell setting. This will cause the battery
bank to gas profusely and will accomplish the following:
•
•
•
3–14
Removal of residual sulfate—Each time a battery is cycled (discharged and
recharged), a small amount of sulfate is left on the plates. Over time, this
gradual buildup of sulfate will compromise the performance of the battery. By
applying an equalizing charge, this sulfate is returned back to the electrolyte,
raising the specific gravity and fully exposing the active material of the plates.
Bring all cells to the same potential—All lead-acid batteries are made up of
individual 2-volt cells. As the battery bank is cycled, slight differences in the
cells results in different cell voltages, affecting the overall charge
effectiveness. Equalizing will serve to bring all cells up to the same voltage
and the electrolyte in each cell to the same specific gravity.
Mixing up of the electrolyte—There is a tendency in the cell of a battery for
the electrolyte to separate into layers of acid and water. The vigorous boiling
action of the battery during equalizing serves to physically mix the
electrolyte.
975-0251-01-01
Battery Charging
Equalizing is not required on gel cell batteries. You will note that if the DIP
switches are set in one of the two gel cell positions, the equalizing charge voltage
is the same as the bulk charge voltage, therefore equalizing is equivalent to an 8hour acceptance stage and is not harmful.
Equalize charging is current limited to 16 A DC. Remove all DC loads from the
output of the inverter/charger.
CAUTION: Damage to batteries
•
•
•
•
•
Do not equalize gel cell batteries with the remote programmed for wet cells.
Always monitor the equalize charge. Provide proper ventilation for battery fumes.
Do not allow any sparks during equalizing. If one or more cells begin to overflow,
terminate the equalize cycle.
Check and top up the battery electrolyte both before and after the equalizing
charge. Do not expose the battery plates to air. Leave the battery caps on while
equalizing.
Remove all loads from the DC system before equalizing. Some DC loads may not
tolerate the high charge voltage.
Do not leave the equalize DIP switch in the ON position. It must be cycled OFF and
left in the OFF position. If left ON, the unit will engage the equalizing cycle every time
the battery charger is engaged.
Charging Over-Discharged Batteries
Charging into a battery bank with a terminal voltage of less than 8 volts (16 in a
24-volt system) presents a special problem for the Freedom 10.
If this situation arises, the unit will attempt to charge for 1 minute. If the inverter
senses excessive ripple voltage, it will shut down to protect itself.
To successfully charger an over-discharged battery, you must remove as
much DC load as possible. Then, set DIP switches 7 and 8 to the ON position to
limit the amount of charge current and the resulting ripple voltage. After the
battery voltage has reached 10 volts (20 volts in a 24-volt system), these switches
can be set to their previous positions.
Please note that if a continuous DC load in excess of 100 amps (50 amps in a
24-volt system) is placed on the battery bank, eventually the battery voltage
will drop below 8 volts (16 volts in a 24-volt system) and the battery charger
will shut off. This load must be significantly reduced and the power to the
charger cycled to resume charging.
Blinking of the BATTERY LED on the remote control while charging is a
warning that an over-discharge is imminent and that the DC load should be
reduced.
975-0251-01-01
3–15
Operation
Battery Charger Voltage Settings
Table 3-5 Battery Charger Voltage Settings
Battery Type and
Temperature
Acceptance Voltage/
Max Time
Float Voltage
Equalize Voltage
12-volt wet cell
warm temperature
14.0 / 1 hour
13.1
15.8
12-volt wet cell
cool temperature
14.4 / 1 hour
13.5
16.3
12-volt gel cell
warm temperature
13.8 / 3 hours
13.3
14.1**
12-volt gel cell
cool temperature
14.1 / 3 hours
13.6
14.1**
24-volt wet cell
warm temperature
28.0 / 1 hour
26.2
31.6
24-volt wet cell
cool temperature
28.8 / 1 hour
27.0
32.6
24-volt gel cell
warm temperature
27.6 / 3 hours
26.6
27.6
24-volt gel cell
cool temperature
28.2 / 3 hours
27.2
28.2
** When set for gel cells, the equalize mode is disabled.
3–16
975-0251-01-01
4
Troubleshooting
Chapter 4 contains information and procedures to troubleshoot the
Freedom 10. This chapter also describes how to use the DC Amps
LED bar graph on the remote control to troubleshoot the unit.
Troubleshooting
Using the Remote Control DC Amps LED Bar Graph
The remote control LEDs are numbered by counting up from the bottom.
LED Number
Indication
1
Illuminates if the unit shuts down for any reason.
2
Over-temperature. Allow to cool.
3
The unit detected a failure. Call Xantrex technical support.
4
Inverter overload caused by too large a load or short circuit. Reset by
cycling power switch or plugging in incoming AC power.
5
Battery overload caused by excessively discharged batteries. See
page 3–15.
6
Incoming AC backfeed. Potentially damaging to the unit. Disconnect
incoming AC power and correct the condition.
7
Triac thermal run away. Turn off and allow to cool down.
8
High battery voltage shutdown during charge mode. Check all charging
sources for proper voltage. Reset by cycling the power switch.
9 and 10
Not used for troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting Guide
Problem
Things to Check
No inverter
output
•
•
•
•
•
Low inverter
output
voltage
Confirm that your volt meter is a true RMS meter. Standard volt meters
will not accurately read the waveform of the inverter and may read
anywhere from 180 VAC to 240 VAC. If a true RMS meter is not
available, check the brightness of an incandescent light bulb. If it
appears normal, the output voltage is properly regulated.
Little or no
output from
battery
charger
•
•
•
Microwave
oven cooking
slowly
4–2
Battery voltage under load.
Battery connections and DC fuse.
Circuit breaker on front panel.
Thermal condition, high power loads or inadequate ventilation may
cause overheating.
Overloads or short circuit, check for excessive loads or bad wiring
connections.
•
•
Wiring connections—check both the AC and DC connections.
AC input voltage—low voltage input will result in low DC output
current. Expect reduced charger output from generators under 6500
watts.
AC reverse polarity—check for voltage between the incoming blue
and green wires. If 240 volts AC is measured, this is reverse polarity.
Microwave ovens will normally cook slowly on inverters due to a
slightly low peak AC voltage.
Cooking speed will be determined by battery voltage. Low voltage
results in increased cooking time. Support the battery bank with an
alternator or other charging source for quicker cooking.
975-0251-01-01
A
Specifications
Appendix A contains the electrical and physical specifications for the
Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger.
All specifications are subject to change without notice.
Specifications
Specifications
Nominal Battery Voltage
12 VDC
24 VDC
Battery Voltage Range
10.0 to 15.5 VDC
20 to 31 VDC
Low Battery Cutout
10 VDC
20 VDC
AC Input Voltage Range
180 to 260 VAC
Frequency Regulation
0.005% @ 50 Hz
Inverter Output Power
1000 VA
Inverter RMS Voltage Regulation
230 VAC ± 5% True RMS
Wave Shape
Modified Sine Wave
Surge Power (15 seconds)
3000 VA
Power Factors Allowed
All
Full Load Efficiency
85%
Peak Efficiency
92%
No Load Power Current Drain
0.12 A
0.06 A
Remote Current Drain
0.03 A
0.015 A
Protection
Circuit breaker, electronic, thermal, high battery, low
battery
Charging Rate
50 A
25 A
Bulk Charge Voltage
14.3 VDC*
28.6 VDC*
Float Charge Voltage
13.4 VDC*
26.8 VDC*
Equalizing Charge Voltage
16.3 VDC*
32.6 VDC*
Regulatory Approvals
CE Marked for the Low Voltage Directive and EMC
Directive
Weight
Dimensions
14.1 kg
30.5 × 24.8 × 17.8 cm
* voltages will vary depending on temperature and the selected battery type.
A–2
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B
Glossary
Appendix B contains a glossary of terms used in this manual. This
appendix also defines some common electrical terms and concepts.
Glossary
Glossary of Terms
Alternating Current
(AC)
An electric current that reverses direction at regular intervals. Sources
of alternating current are shore power, utility power, inverter output
power, generator power or household current.
Ampere (Amp, A)
The unit of measure of electron flow rate of current through a circuit.
Ampere-hour
(Amp-hr. AH)
A unit of measure for a battery’s electrical storage capacity, obtained
by multiplying the current in amperes by the time in hours of
discharge (Example: a battery which delivers 5 amperes for 20 hours
delivers 5 amperes times 20 hours, or 100 Amp-Hr. of capacity.)
AWG
American Wire Gauge, a standard used to measure the size of wire.
AH Capacity
The ability of a fully charged battery to deliver a specified quantity of
electricity (Amp-Hr, AH) at a given rate (amp, A) over a definite
period of time (Hr).
Circuit
An electric circuit is the path of an electric current. A closed circuit
has a complete path. An open circuit has a broken or disconnected
path.
Circuit (Series)
A circuit which has only one path for the current to flow. Batteries
arranged in series are connected with the negative of the first to the
positive of the second, negative of the second to the positive of the
third, etc. If two 12 volt batteries of 50 ampere-hours capacity are
connected in series, the circuit voltage is equal to the sum of the two
battery voltages, or 24 volts, and the ampere-hour capacity of the
combination is 50 ampere-hours.
Circuit (Parallel)
A circuit which provides more than one path for current flow. A
parallel arrangement of batteries (of like voltage and capacity) would
have all positive terminals connected to a conductor and all negative
terminals connected to another conductor. If two 12 volt batteries of
50 ampere-hour capacity each are connected in parallel, the circuit
voltage is 12 volts, and the ampere-hour capacity of the combinations
is 100 ampere-hours.
Current
The rate of flow of electricity or the movement rate of electrons along
a conductor. It is comparable to the flow of a stream of water. The unit
of measure for current is the ampere.
Cycle
In a battery, one discharge plus one recharge equals one cycle.
Dip Switch
A series of small switches used for special programming of the
Freedom inverter/charger. These switches are located on the rear of
the Freedom remote panel.
Direct Current (DC) Current that flows continuously in one direction such as that from
batteries, photovoltaics, alternators, chargers and DC generators.
Discharging
(Discharge)
B–2
When a battery is delivering current it is said to be discharging.
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Glossary of Terms
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Equalize Charge
A controlled overcharge of the batteries which brings all cells up to
the same voltage potential, extends the battery life, restores capacity
and mixes the electrolyte.
Gel Cell Battery
A type of battery that uses a gelled electrolyte solution. These
batteries are sealed and are virtually maintenance free. Not all sealed
batteries are the gel cell type.
Ground
The reference potential of a circuit. In automotive use, the result of
attaching one battery cable to the body or frame which is used as a
path for completing a circuit in lieu of a direct wire from a component.
This method is not suitable for connecting the negative cable of the
inverter to ground. Instead, route the cable directly to the negative
terminal of the battery.
LED
Light Emitting Diode, used as an indicator light.
Negative
Designating or pertaining to electrical potential. The negative terminal
is the point from which electrons flow during discharge.
Ohm
A unit for measuring electrical resistance. Ohm's Law Express the
relationship between volt (V), amperes (A) in an electrical circuit with
resistance (R). It can be expressed as follows: V = AR If any two of
the three values are known, the third value can be calculated by using
the above formula.
Ohm’s Law
Express the relationship between volt (V), amperes (A) in an electrical
circuit with resistance (R). It can be expressed as follows: V = AR. If
any two of the three values are known, the third value can be
calculated by using the above formula.
Positive
Designating or pertaining to electrical potential; opposite of negative.
The positive battery terminal is the point where electrons return to the
battery during discharge.
Power sharing
The ability of the charger to reduce its output when the AC power
being consumed by the charger and external AC loads connected to
the output of the inverter are in excess of the input breaker rating.
RCCB
Residual Current Circuit Breaker. A protective device that
deenergizes a circuit rapidly when current to ground exceeds a
predetermined value.
Volt
The unit of measure for electric potential.
Volt Amps (VA)
See Watt.
Watt
The unit for measuring electrical power, i.e. the rate of doing work, in
moving electrons by, or against, an electric potential.
Watt-Hour (WATTHR, WH)
The unit for measuring electrical energy which equals Watts × Hours.
Wet Cell Battery
A type of battery that uses liquid as an electrolyte. This type of battery
requires periodic maintenance such as cleaning the connections and
checking the electrolyte level.
B–3
B–4
Warranty and Return Information
Warranty
What does this warranty cover? This Limited Warranty is provided by Xantrex Technology Inc. ("Xantrex")
and covers defects in workmanship and materials in your Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger. This warranty period lasts for
24 months from the date of purchase at the point of sale to you, the original end user customer. You require proof of
purchase to make warranty claims.
This Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners but only for the unexpired portion of the Warranty
Period. Subsequent owners also require proof of purchase.
What will Xantrex do? Xantrex will, at its option, repair or replace the defective product free of charge,
provided that you notify Xantrex of the product defect within the Warranty Period, and provided that Xantrex through
inspection establishes the existence of such a defect and that it is covered by this Limited Warranty.
Xantrex will, at its option, use new and/or reconditioned parts in performing warranty repair and building
replacement products. Xantrex reserves the right to use parts or products of original or improved design in the repair
or replacement. If Xantrex repairs or replaces a product, its warranty continues for the remaining portion of the
original Warranty Period or 90 days from the date of the return shipment to the customer, whichever is greater. All
replaced products and all parts removed from repaired products become the property of Xantrex.
Xantrex covers both parts and labor necessary to repair the product, and return shipment to the customer via a
Xantrex-selected non-expedited surface freight within the contiguous United States and Canada. Alaska and Hawaii
are excluded. Contact Xantrex Customer Service for details on freight policy for return shipments outside of the
contiguous United States and Canada.
How do you get service? If your product requires troubleshooting or warranty service, contact your merchant. If
you are unable to contact your merchant, or the merchant is unable to provide service, contact Xantrex directly at:
Telephone: 34 93 470 5330
Fax:
34 93 473 6093
Email:
[email protected]
Direct returns may be performed according to the Xantrex Return Material Authorization Policy described in your
product manual. For some products, Xantrex maintains a network of regional Authorized Service Centers. Call
Xantrex or check our website to see if your product can be repaired at one of these facilities.
What proof of purchase is required? In any warranty claim, dated proof of purchase must accompany the
product and the product must not have been disassembled or modified without prior written authorization by Xantrex.
Proof of purchase may be in any one of the following forms:
• The dated purchase receipt from the original purchase of the product at point of sale to the end user, or
• The dated dealer invoice or purchase receipt showing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) status, or
• The dated invoice or purchase receipt showing the product exchanged under warranty
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WA–1
Warranty and Return
What does this warranty not cover? This Limited Warranty does not cover normal wear and tear of the
product or costs related to the removal, installation, or troubleshooting of the customer's electrical systems. This
warranty does not apply to and Xantrex will not be responsible for any defect in or damage to:
a) the product if it has been misused, neglected, improperly installed, physically damaged or altered, either internally or externally, or damaged from improper use or use in an unsuitable environment;
b) the product if it has been subjected to fire, water, generalized corrosion, biological infestations, or input voltage
that creates operating conditions beyond the maximum or minimum limits listed in the Xantrex product specifications including high input voltage from generators and lightning strikes;
c) the product if repairs have been done to it other than by Xantrex or its authorized service centers (hereafter
"ASCs");
d) the product if it is used as a component part of a product expressly warranted by another manufacturer;
e) the product if its original identification (trade-mark, serial number) markings have been defaced, altered, or
removed.
Disclaimer
Product
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY PROVIDED BY XANTREX IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR
XANTREX PRODUCT AND IS, WHERE PERMITTED BY LAW, IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, CONDITIONS,
GUARANTEES, REPRESENTATIONS, OBLIGATIONS AND LIABILITIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE IN
CONNECTION WITH THE PRODUCT, HOWEVER ARISING (WHETHER BY CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE, PRINCIPLES OF
MANUFACTURER'S LIABILITY, OPERATION OF LAW, CONDUCT, STATEMENT OR OTHERWISE), INCLUDING WITHOUT
RESTRICTION ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF QUALITY, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE TO THE EXTENT
REQUIRED UNDER APPLICABLE LAW TO APPLY TO THE PRODUCT SHALL BE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE PERIOD
STIPULATED UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY.
IN NO EVENT WILL XANTREX BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES,
LOSSES, COSTS OR EXPENSES HOWEVER ARISING WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT INCLUDING WITHOUT RESTRICTION
ANY ECONOMIC LOSSES OF ANY KIND, ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY, ANY PERSONAL INJURY, ANY DAMAGE OR
INJURY ARISING FROM OR AS A RESULT OF MISUSE OR ABUSE, OR THE INCORRECT INSTALLATION, INTEGRATION OR
OPERATION OF THE PRODUCT.
Exclusions
If this product is a consumer product, federal law does not allow an exclusion of implied warranties. To the extent you
are entitled to implied warranties under federal law, to the extent permitted by applicable law they are limited to the
duration of this Limited Warranty. Some states and provinces do not allow limitations or exclusions on implied
warranties or on the duration of an implied warranty or on the limitation or exclusion of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitation(s) or exclusion(s) may not apply to you. This Limited Warranty gives you specific
legal rights. You may have other rights which may vary from state to state or province to province.
Warning: Limitations On Use
Please refer to your product manual for limitations on uses of the product.
SPECIFICALLY, PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FREEDOM 10 INVERTER/CHARGER SHOULD NOT BE USED IN CONNECTION WITH
LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS OR OTHER MEDICAL EQUIPMENT OR DEVICES. WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE
FOREGOING, XANTREX MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES REGARDING THE USE OF THE XANTREX FREEDOM
10 INVERTER/CHARGER IN CONNECTION WITH LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS OR OTHER MEDICAL EQUIPMENT OR DEVICES.
Please note that the Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger is not intended for use as an uninterruptible power supply and
Xantrex makes no warranty or representation in connection with any use of the product for such purposes.
WA–2
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Warranty and Return
Return Material Authorization Policy
Before returning a product directly to Xantrex you must obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number and
the correct factory "Ship To" address. Products must also be shipped prepaid. Product shipments will be refused and
returned at your expense if they are unauthorized, returned without an RMA number clearly marked on the outside of
the shipping box, if they are shipped collect, or if they are shipped to the wrong location.
When you contact Xantrex to obtain service, please have your instruction manual ready for reference and be prepared
to supply:
• The serial number of your product
• Information about the installation and use of the unit
• Information about the failure and/or reason for the return
• A copy of your dated proof of purchase
Record these details on page WA–4.
Return Procedure
1.
2.
3.
Package the unit safely, preferably using the original box and packing materials. Please ensure that your product
is shipped fully insured in the original packaging or equivalent. This warranty will not apply where the product is
damaged due to improper packaging.
Include the following:
• The RMA number supplied by Xantrex Technology Inc. clearly marked on the outside of the box.
• A return address where the unit can be shipped. Post office boxes are not acceptable.
• A contact telephone number where you can be reached during work hours.
• A brief description of the problem.
Ship the unit prepaid to the address provided by your Xantrex customer service representative.
If you are returning a product from outside of the USA or Canada In addition to the above, you MUST
include return freight funds and are fully responsible for all documents, duties, tariffs, and deposits.
If you are returning a product to a Xantrex Authorized Service Center (ASC) A Xantrex return
material authorization (RMA) number is not required. However, you must contact the ASC prior to returning the
product or presenting the unit to verify any return procedures that may apply to that particular facility.
Out of Warranty Service
If the warranty period for your Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger has expired, if the unit was damaged by misuse or
incorrect installation, if other conditions of the warranty have not been met, or if no dated proof of purchase is
available, your unit may be serviced or replaced for a flat fee.
To return your Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger for out of warranty service, contact Xantrex Customer Service for a
Return Material Authorization (RMA) number and follow the other steps outlined in “Return Procedure” on
page WA–3.
Payment options such as credit card or money order will be explained by the Customer Service Representative. In
cases where the minimum flat fee does not apply, as with incomplete units or units with excessive damage, an
additional fee will be charged. If applicable, you will be contacted by Customer Service once your unit has been
received.
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WA–3
Warranty and Return
Information About Your System
As soon as you open your Freedom 10 Inverter/Charger package, record the following information and be sure to
keep your proof of purchase.
p Serial Number (on DC end)
_________________________________
p Purchased From
_________________________________
p Purchase Date
_________________________________
If you need to contact Customer Service, please record the following details before calling. This information will help
our representatives give you better service.
p Type of installation (e.g. RV, truck)
__________________________________
p Length of time inverter has been installed
__________________________________
p Battery/battery bank size
__________________________________
p Battery type (e.g. flooded, sealed gel cell, AGM)
__________________________________
p DC wiring size and length
__________________________________
p Appliances operating when problem occurred
__________________________________
p Description of problem
__________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
WA–4
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Xantrex Technology Inc.
34 93 470 5330 Tel
34 93 473 6093 Fax
[email protected]
www.xantrex.com
975-0251-01-01
Printed in China